The Characteristics and Selection of Various Types of Rice Paper for Chinese Calligraphy

Xuan paper (宣纸), also known as rice paper, is the esteemed medium for Chinese calligraphy and traditional painting. Its unique texture, absorbency, and durability directly affect the artistic outcome. Selection of Various Types of Rice Paper is crucial for achieving the desired artistic effect. Choosing the right Xuan paper according to your style and purpose is crucial for both beginners and seasoned artists. Here’s an overview of the main types and what to consider when selecting.

Different Types of Xuan Paper

1. Raw Xuan Paper (Sheng Xuan 生宣)

• Texture & Absorbency: Raw Xuan paper is untreated and highly absorbent. It quickly soaks ink, allowing for fluid, spontaneous brushwork and blurred effects.

• Suitability: Preferred by experienced calligraphers and painters who value natural ink flow and expressive spontaneity.

• Challenge: For beginners, raw paper can cause ink to bleed uncontrollably due to its high absorbency.

2. Processed (Sized) Xuan Paper (Shu Xuan 熟宣)

• Texture & Treatment: This paper is coated with alum to reduce absorbency, making the ink stay longer on the surface. As a result, it gives you more control for fine, precise work.

• Suitability: Ideal for detailed work, such as Gong-bi style painting or meticulous calligraphy that requires sharp lines.

• Effect: Acts more like Western watercolor paper, suitable for layering and corrections.

3. Semi-Sized (Half-Ripe) Xuan Paper (Ban Shu Xuan 半熟宣)

• Balance: A middle ground offering moderate absorbency — allows both spontaneity and control.

• Suitability: Great for beginners practicing both painting and calligraphy; also good for backgrounds and wash techniques.

Quality and Composition

Xuan paper is traditionally made from Pteroceltis tatarinowii tree bark and rice straw in various proportions:

• Pure bark papers (up to 85% bark) are regarded as higher grade and used for exhibitions and professional artworks. They are flexible, durable, and resist deterioration.

• Mixed papers with more rice straw content are lighter and cheaper but less durable.

• The bark fiber gives strength and the straw provides softness and absorbency balance.

How to Choose the Right Xuan Paper

• Purpose: For expressive, spontaneous brushwork choose Raw Xuan; for detailed line work, Processed/Sized Xuan; for versatility, Semi-Sized Xuan.

• Skill Level: Beginners usually benefit from semi-sized or double-layered papers which control ink spread better.

• Ink and Brush Compatibility: Matching your brush type and ink amount with the paper's absorbency ensures the best results.

Additional Considerations

• Thickness: Papers range from thin sheets ideal for practice to thicker, textured sheets for finished work.

• Color/Finish: Most Xuan paper is off-white or natural but some have subtle colorations or textures for artistic effects.

• Durability: Traditional handmade papers are more lasting and beautify with age.

• Price: Higher grades cost more but often justify investment for serious practice and exhibition.

Conclusion

Understanding the characteristics of Xuan paper allows you to harmonize your tools — brush, ink, and paper — in perfect balance. Selecting the right type enriches your calligraphy practice by enhancing the expression of your spirit on paper.

For beginners, experimenting with different types and practicing patience leads to mastery. For professionals, choice of paper is a critical medium of artistic intention.

If you want to deepen your understanding of traditional materials, contact me for workshops and courses on Chinese ink meditation and calligraphy.